Demystifying Consumer Proposals – Step by Step Guide 

Written By: Colleen Craig, CPA, CA, FCIRP
Published On: July 28, 2023
The weight of debt

Consumer proposals serve as an effective debt relief solution for individuals in Canada. At C.E. Craig & Associates Inc., were we have office in Victoria BC, Nanaimo BC, Lanford BC and Duncan BC, we can serve all residents of Vancouver Island and British Columbia.  As a Licensed Insolvency Practitioner, we are the only licensed professionals who can provide consumer proposal solutions. 

In this blog post, we will address common queries related to the waiting period, CRA acceptance, success rates, payment terms, impact on renting, duration, and post-acceptance procedures of a consumer proposal.

What Happens After the 45-Day Waiting Period in a Consumer Proposal?

Once you file a consumer proposal, a 45-day waiting period begins. During this time, your creditors have the opportunity to review and vote on the proposal. Also, during this time, you do not have to make any payments to creditors and all interest charges and legal actions stop.  After the waiting period, if the majority of your creditors accept the proposal (50%), it becomes legally binding on all your creditors – even those who may have voted “no”. You will then begin making regular payments as outlined in the proposal, typically monthly minimum payments (based on what you can afford) over a period of up to five years.

Does CRA Accept Consumer Proposals filed?

Yes, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) accepts consumer proposals. If you owe money to the CRA, including taxes, interest, or penalties, you can include these debts in your consumer proposal. The CRA evaluates each proposal based on its individual merits and your ability to meet the proposed payment terms.  

Do All Consumer Proposals Get Accepted?

While consumer proposals have a high acceptance rate, there is no guarantee that every proposal will be accepted. The decision to accept or reject a consumer proposal rests with your creditors. However, by working closely with a licensed insolvency trustee, you can create a well-structured proposal that increases the likelihood of acceptance. Based on our years of experience and dealing with many other debtors in similar situations, we are here to advise you on how to structure a proposal your creditors will accept. 

How Much Do I Pay in a Consumer Proposal?

The amount you will pay in a consumer proposal depends on your personal financial situation and the negotiated terms with your creditors. Some proposals we have developed for debtors have offered just pennies on the dollar to creditors, while others offered a full principle repayment plan over a more structed period and simply eliminated the ongoing interest charges.

A consumer proposal will offer a better return to your creditors than they would receive in a bankruptcy.  This is the first calculation we will do you with you at your free initial consultation.  The choice between filing a consumer proposal vs. a bankruptcy is completely up to you – based on your own situation. Generally, consumer proposals offer creditors a small percentage of the total debt owed. As your licensed insolvency trustee, we will help you assess your income, assets, and expenses to determine a reasonable monthly payment that you can afford.

Does a Consumer Proposal Affect Renting?

A consumer proposal does not directly impact your ability to rent a property in British Columbia. However, landlords may conduct credit checks during the application process. Since a consumer proposal will appear on your credit report, it may influence the landlord’s decision. It’s important to communicate openly with potential landlords and explain your financial situation to increase your chances of securing a rental property.

How Long Does a Consumer Proposal Take?

The duration of a consumer proposal can vary depending on individual circumstances. Typically, a consumer proposal lasts up to five years. However, it is essential to consult with a licensed insolvency trustee to evaluate your specific situation and determine the most appropriate repayment period.

What Happens Once Your Consumer Proposal is Accepted by Creditors?

Once your consumer proposal is accepted by creditors, you will begin making regular payments as outlined in the proposal. It is crucial to fulfill your payment obligations. Throughout the proposal period, your trustee will distribute the funds to your creditors and provide ongoing guidance and support to you via at least two insolvency counselling sessions.  

Conclusion: 

Consumer proposals offer individuals in Victoria and Nanaimo and all across British Columbia a viable solution for managing and reducing their debt. By understanding what happens after the waiting period, the acceptance process, payment terms, impact on renting, duration, and post-acceptance procedures, you can make an informed decision about pursuing a consumer proposal. Consult with a licensed insolvency trustee at C.E. Craig & Associates Inc. in Victoria and Nanaimo 23to explore your debt relief options and pave the way to a debt-free future.

As a licensed insolvency trustee at C.E. Craig & Associates Inc we have helped thousands of people on Vancouver Island with filing consumer proposals.  With offices in Victoria BC, Nanaimo BC, Duncan and Langford, our staff are here to assist with consumer proposal solutions.

About the Author

Colleen Craig, Founder and Owner

Colleen is the founder of C.E. Craig & Associates Inc., is a Chartered Professional Accountant, Licensed Insolvency Trustee, and a Fellow member of the Canadian Insolvency and Restructuring Professional Association.

Her insolvency career has focused on providing practical and unbiased advice about debt relief options to both individuals and to business.   

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